Neymar Seeks Revenge with Santos and the Brazilian National Team
Neymar begins a new season with Santos of Brazil at a crucial moment in his career. His main goal is to convince coach Carlo Ancelotti and secure a place in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The forward, who renewed his contract for one more year with the club that saw him born, arrives at this season after a 2025 marked by injuries and extra-sporting situations. Despite this, he demonstrated his quality at the end of last season, being fundamental for Santos to maintain its place in the first division of the Brazilian Championship, even playing with physical discomfort in decisive matches.
Neymar finished the season with 11 goals and four assists in 28 matches, a notable participation considering that he was available in just over half of the team’s games. After concluding the Brasileirao on December 22nd, the attacker underwent an arthroscopy on his left knee to correct a meniscus injury.Focused on the Return
Although he is still recovering, the player has intensified his process with double training sessions, according to Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, who highlighted the player’s commitment and determination to return in top form.
The technical staff is confident that Neymar can reappear in the second matchday of the championship, in the classic against São Paulo, scheduled for February 4th in Vila Belmiro. This return would mark the beginning of a key stage in his attempt to return to the national team.Ancelotti’s Requirement
Carlo Ancelotti, who is close to completing his first year in charge of the Canarinha, has been clear regarding Neymar: he will only be called up if he is fully recovered. The Italian coach has repeatedly praised the attacker’s talent, considering him a historical figure in Brazilian football, but has insisted that his inclusion will depend strictly on his physical condition.
Ancelotti has also indicated that, if he returns to the national team, Neymar could play in a more central position, acting as a false nine, to better take advantage of his offensive ability near the rival area.A Demanding Calendar
Looking ahead to the first semester of the year, Neymar will have a calendar full of opportunities to demonstrate his level. Santos will play around 20 league matches, in addition to commitments in the Copa do Brasil, the Copa Sudamericana, and the Campeonato Paulista.
At almost 34 years old, the forward faces this season as a definitive challenge, backed by the arrival of important reinforcements such as Gabriel Barbosa “Gabigol”, with whom he shared successes in the past. Meanwhile, Neymar remains focused on his recovery, his family environment and his professional commitments, convinced that the campaign that begins can mark a new chapter in his career.
